Boxing
Liam Smith v Chris Eubank Jr preview
Liam Smith and Chris Eubank Jr renew their hostilities for their highly-anticipated rematch in Manchester. A grudge match that left fans hungry for more earlier this year is set to unfold once again, and this time, the stakes are higher than ever.
Their initial clash, also held in Manchester, left fans in awe as Smith managed to secure a victory in just the fourth round. The AO Arena is the battleground for their second encounter, an event that has been delayed twice due to an injury that temporarily sidelined the 35-year-old Liverpudlian.
Beyond the physicality of the contest, this rematch carries immense emotional weight. The animosity between the two fighters adds a layer of intensity, creating an environment where every punch and every move is laced with significance.
Liam Smith – favourite for another KO
Smith’s potential injury concerns from the past appear to have subsided, allowing him to focus on the task at hand. However, the disruptions caused by the delayed rematch might create an element of uncertainty, a factor that could impact the dynamics of the contest. As Eubank Jr. aims to outsmart his opponent with his footwork and skill, Smith’s relentless pressure and determination could play a decisive role in the fight’s trajectory.
While the outcome of their first bout was somewhat surprising, Smith has firmly positioned himself as the frontrunner for this showdown, coming in as the 8/13 favourite for a second successive victory. He is additionally 11/8 for another KO or TKO, and 11/10 to knock down Eubank in any round.
Eubank – Looking for revenge
On the other side of the ring, Eubank Jr. has made a pivotal decision that adds a layer of intrigue to the narrative. He switched trainers, moving from Terence Crawford’s camp to Brian McIntyre’s. This decision, made just a month before the fight, hints at either a strategic move or an attempt to recalibrate after his previous defeat.
Eubank will likely want to make this fight go the distance and avoid an early knockout. His most likely method of victory comes in the form of a decision at 11/4, whilst he is 4/1 to win via KO or TKO. His price to win the fight outright is 11/8.
As the fighters size each other up, their physical attributes come into focus. Smith, standing at 5’9½” with a 69” punching reach, fights in an orthodox stance. Eubank Jr., on the other hand, stands taller at 5’11” and has a longer reach of 72”. This slight difference in stature is a subtle reminder of the nuances that could influence the bout’s dynamics.
Beyond the physical, their records reflect a similar level of skill and accomplishment. Smith boasts a record of 33-3-1 with 20 knockouts, showcasing a knockout rate of 60%. Eubank Jr. presents a record of 32-3 with an impressive 23 knockouts. This near parity in numbers only adds to the intrigue, underscoring the evenness of their retrospective skill sets.
